Generators
Generators are based on the principle that when
a wire, coil or loop that is part of a circuit experiences a changing magnetic
field, a voltage is induced, and a current will flow.
Such a wire can be moved in a magnetic field,
or the magnetic field can be moved past the wire. The effect is the same!!
The direction in which the current flows depends
on a combination of the direction of the movement of the wire relative
to the magnetic field, or the movement of the magnetic field relative to
the wire. The flow of electrons is
shown in these diagrams.
There are two types of generators, AC or alternating
current generators, and DC or direct current generators. Click on a box
to learn about each.